UK vs UK — 1953 vs 1957
| 100 BN2 | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,660 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.3 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,169 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,634 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $2,985 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 and 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 110 hp, a 140-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,660 cc, while the Jaguar XKSS relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 10.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100's 14,634 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production commands a significant premium over the 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.